Frankie Muniz Reflects on 'Malcolm' Co-Star Bryan Cranston's Age

Muniz says he found Cranston 'so old' on set, but now the former child star is also 40 himself.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:40pm

An extreme close-up of a shimmering, glittering array of sequins in vibrant reds, golds, and silvers, using dramatic studio lighting to create a sense of luxury and opulence.The glitz and glamour of the 'Malcolm in the Middle' reboot promises to captivate a new generation of fans.Burbank Today

In a recent interview, actor Frankie Muniz, who starred as the title character in the hit sitcom 'Malcolm in the Middle', revealed that he used to think his co-star Bryan Cranston was 'so old' when they filmed the show. Now, at 40 years old himself, Muniz says he has a newfound appreciation for how young Cranston was at the time.

Why it matters

Muniz's comments provide an interesting generational perspective, highlighting how perceptions of age can shift over time. The 'Malcolm in the Middle' reboot also presents an opportunity for the cast to revisit the show and connect with a new generation of fans.

The details

In the original 'Malcolm in the Middle' series, which aired from 2000 to 2006, Frankie Muniz played the title role of Malcolm, a gifted young boy navigating the challenges of growing up in a dysfunctional family. His co-star, Bryan Cranston, played the role of Malcolm's father, Hal. Muniz has now revealed that when they were filming the show, he thought Cranston, who was in his 40s at the time, was 'so old'.

  • The original 'Malcolm in the Middle' series aired from 2000 to 2006.
  • Frankie Muniz is now 40 years old himself.

The players

Frankie Muniz

An American actor best known for his role as the title character in the hit sitcom 'Malcolm in the Middle'.

Bryan Cranston

An American actor who played the role of Hal, the father of Muniz's character, in 'Malcolm in the Middle'.

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What they’re saying

“I used to think Bryan Cranston was so old when we were filming 'Malcolm in the Middle', and now I'm 40 myself.”

— Frankie Muniz, Actor

What’s next

Fans can look forward to the upcoming 'Malcolm in the Middle: Life's Still Unfair' reboot, which Muniz says will feature some special Easter eggs, including appearances by his own son and wife.

The takeaway

Muniz's comments highlight how perspectives on age can shift over time, and the upcoming 'Malcolm in the Middle' reboot provides an opportunity for the cast to reconnect with fans and explore the enduring appeal of the beloved sitcom.